Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the heart of Southern hospitality with this irresistible Brown Sugar Sweet Potato Pie. Imagine a dessert so decadent, so velvety smooth, that it will make your taste buds dance with pure joy. This isn't just a pie – it's a slice of comfort, tradition, and pure deliciousness that will have your family and friends begging for seconds (and maybe even the recipe)!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and position a rack in the center of the oven.
- If using fresh sweet potatoes, wash, peel, and cut them into chunks. Boil or steam until tender, then mash thoroughly until smooth. Allow the mashed sweet potatoes to cool to room temperature.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure smooth incorporation.
- Mix in the mashed sweet potatoes, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined.
- Prepare your pie crust by placing it in a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges decoratively. If using a pre-made crust, ensure it's at room temperature.
- Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. The pie will continue to set as it cools.
- Once cooled, you can serve the pie at room temperature or chilled. Optional: Top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of additional cinnamon before serving.
Tips
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: For the most luxurious texture, use orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (often labeled as "yams") which are naturally sweeter and creamier.
- Room Temperature is Key: Ensure your ingredients like eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better incorporation.
- Don't Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined to prevent a tough texture.
- Prevent Pie Crust Burning: If the edges of your pie crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil strips during baking.
- Test for Doneness: The pie is ready when the center is slightly jiggly but set. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature. This helps the filling set properly and enhances the flavor.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
